AZM thinks it’s time for STARDOM to have a new icon, and she believes she is the only one who can change that.
At Wrestle Kingdom 19, January 4, 2025, AZM will challenge IWGP Women’s Champion Mayu Iwatani for her title. It is slated to be the second match on the lineup and the lone women’s match on the card.
NJPW held an exclusive interview with AZM ahead of her high stakes match in the Tokyo Dome against Mayu Iwatani. NJPW mentioned a common theme for Wrestle Kingdom 19’s card with new generation wrestlers competing in marquee matches. Besides AZM, the card also sees a rising star in Shota Umino. He will headline the event against IWGP World Heavyweight Champion Zack Sabre Jr.
When asked about her thoughts on this, AZM emphasized on the need for change in the top names in STARDOM. “In the end, it’s always Mayu Iwatani who gets talked about. I think Mayu Iwatani has always been in the center since STARDOM was launched 13 years ago. But, I’m getting tired of seeing that scene. I’m sure the people around me feel the same way, and I think I’m the only one who can change that,” she said.
She also mentioned having plans of competing overseas more often should she become the new IWGP Women’s Champion. Regardless, she is focused on changing the landscape of STARDOM as the new icon. AZM ends by sending a final message to the defending champion, saying “Mayu Iwatani, on the Tokyo Dome stage that you have dreamed of, I will finally win utterly and surpass you!”
